Welcome to India, or as we say ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ (The guest is an incarnation of God). Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!!

Mid-morning arrival, meeting and assistance upon arrival as our representatives welcome you and escort you to your car.

Whilst the room keys and check in is organized, our representative would introduce the tour to you and hand over the documents to you. (Though check in time is 2pm, every effort would be made to ensure an as early as possible check in - subject to availability)

Day is at leisure to recover from your long flight.

Overnight at Udman Ferns N Petals, Delhi (Superior Room) (No Meals)

After breakfast, we proceed for the guided tour of Old Delhi. We cross the city and into the walled gates of the Old city with visits to the Jamma Mosque (1650) and drive through the fabled area of Chandni Chowk (aptly translates to Moonlight Square) where the throngs of shoppers and vendors meet in the oldest area of Delhi. 

The highlight of this tour would be a ride on cycle rickshaws. Now these are 3-wheel cycles with a sofa seat at the back. The Rickshawala (Rickshaw driver) sits on a small cushion in the front and two passengers on the sofa seat behind. This is a remarkable way to explore and picture the hustle and bustle as well as the color of the narrow winding streets bursting with people and pavement shops selling wares of all description - including a laughing set of dentures. The ride would be accompanied by peals of laughter both from the passengers as well as the onlookers. 

We also visit the Raj Ghat and nearby ghats where the founder of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi and thereafter Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi were cremated.    

Later, we will proceed for a guided tour of New Delhi. Our tour includes a visit to the Qutab Minar - 72 meters high and one of the most perfect towers in the Persian world.  The Iron Pillar which has survived the vagaries of weather for over 1500 years. Then, we will continue our expedition with a drive to the Lutyens Delhi which is considered to be the corridors of power and serenity. Our tour includes a drive pass through the Rashtrapati Bhawan, this vast, intricate work of mixed Mughal and Western architecture is one of the largest presidential residences in the world we will also visit the Parliament House as well as witness the majestic India Gate – a powerful tribute to our brave soldiers.

Following our drive pass to the Lutyens Delhi area, we will now visit the Humayun’s Tomb (1586), built by the Emperor’s widow Hamida Banu Begam, also known as Haji Begam, and commenced the construction of his tomb in 1569, fourteen years after his death. It is the first distinct example of proper Mughal style, which was inspired by Persian architecture.

Overnight at Udman Ferns N Petals, Delhi (Superior Room) (B)

After breakfast, we will transfer to the Delhi airport to board the flight to Udaipur. 

Meeting and assistance upon arrival at the Udaipur airport and we will transfer to hotel, Fateh Niwas. 

(Though check in time is 2pm, every effort would be made to ensure an as early as possible check in - subject to availability)

After rest and relaxation, we proceed on a tour of this "Lake City". Udaipur is a cool oasis in the dry heart of Rajasthan. It is probably the most romantic city in a state where every city has some romantic or exotic tale to tell. The huge city palace towering over the Lake Pichola is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Though it is a conglomeration of buildings built by successive rulers, it manages to retain a surprising uniformity of design and affords very fine view of the lake and the city from the upper terraces. The Jagadish temple next to the city palace enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu and his vehicle- a mighty bird called garuda - in a brass image. The temple is a very fine example of Indo-Aryan Art.

From here we tour the fascinating and impressive cluster of cenotaphs of the Maharanas of Mewar. Here, there are about nineteen cenotaphs of Maharanas cremated there. The most striking cenotaph is that Maharana Amar Singh, who reigned from 1597 to 1620. Nearby is also Ahar Museum, where on display is limited but very rare earthen pottery. Some sculptures and other archaeological finds. Some pieces date back to 1700 BC and a tenth century metal figure of Buddha is a special attraction.

Then, from here we move out to visit Saheliyon - ki - bari (the garden of maids of honour with numerous fountains which shows the unique life style of the royal ladies who once strolled here.

Overnight at Fateh Niwas, Udaipur (Deluxe Room) (B)

This morning, following breakfast, we will arrive at Delwara, a former royal principality which is about an hour’s drive from Udaipur. Once we acquaint ourselves to the local ambiance, we will proceed for a walk where on the pathways, you will also meet the cheerful villagers - happy to explain to you their folklore, traditions, as well as culture. Besides, the Delwara village community has a rich heritage including an 18th-century palace, 1000-year-old Jain temples, stunning step wells, and a thriving crafts tradition. Moreover, this heritage walk gives you a unique opportunity to peek into small-town India. Also, the NGO which work closely with the local village community here empowered the villagers to raise questions about the social issues such as castes, women’s rights, drinking water, livelihoods etc. Due to their work they are now able to bring sustainable change in their community as well as in their lifestyle.

Afternoon, we enjoy a boat cruise on the serene and beautiful Lake Pichola. The island palace on the Lake called Jagmandir Palace is quite fascinating. The Palace provided inspirations and ideas to the builder of the Taj Mahal. The banks of the lake provide interesting glimpses of the daily bathing and the laundry that takes place here. Looking across the lake, with the city and its great palace rising up behind the island palace, is a scene of rare beauty.

Overnight at Fateh Niwas, Udaipur (Deluxe Room) (B)

After breakfast, we will drive to Sardargarh enroute we will visit Ranakpur.

Upon arrival in Ranakpur, we enjoy excursion to Ranakpur Temple the exquisite Jain Temple. Built during the reign of the liberal and gifted monarch RanaKumbha in the 15th century The basement is of 48, 000 sq. feet area that covers the whole complex. There are four subsidiary shrines, twenty-four pillared halls and eligibly domes supported by over four hundred columns. The total number of columns is 1,444 all of which are intricately carved with no two being alike. The artistically carved nymphs playing the flute in various dance postures at a height of 45 feet are an engrossing sight. In the assembly hall, there are two big bells weighing 108 kg whose sound echoes in the entire complex. The main temple is of Chaumukh or four-face temple dedicated to Adinath.

From here we will continue driving to Sardargarh.

Upon arrival, we will check into Sardargarh Fort, one of the magnificent forts of Rajasthan, It is an extravagant creation by men of a bygone era Situated amidst the mountains and deep forests of Chuppun, the 250 year old fortress can be seen from far as it dominates the landscape.

The Mahal (Palace) of the Ravala (Fort) with 21 suites, are today part of the Sardargarh Heritage Hotel. Each suite here has its own ethnic decor. Though all modern comforts that discerning western tourists seek are provided, but, as far as possible, the authentic elements of the Fort have been retained in the Hotel, thus recreating the romance and nostalgia of the era when the powers of the maharaja were at its zenith.

Overnight at Sardargarh Fort (Suite) (B)

Following breakfast, we embark upon a unique experience – a 44 km train ride between two villages. We will go native today, and travel with the villagers through exceedingly fascinating countryside and landscapes.

The track passes through a breath-taking scenery of Ravli Sanctuary, with 100 feet high bridges, two long tunnels, waterfalls, thick jungle, and above all an unchanged ambience of a bygone era. The track is cut on a cliff side and one comes down by almost one thousand feet. All along one can only appreciate the Herculean effort by the engineers in 1928.

The safety devices are most amusing. At one place the driver has to get down physically to change the track (when gong down).

We ride on a meter gauge local train, having wooden sleepers, accompanying villagers travelling to Marwar. One travels through a ghat section and descends 1200 feet to Phulad Railway Station. Enroute we stop at GoramGhat flag station where monkeys descend from nabouring scrub jungle to feed on articles given by the villages. Your car awaits you at Phulad and from here, we will drive to Jodhpur.

Upon arrival, we will check in to hotel, Ratan Vilas.

Evening, join us as we step into the blue city of Jodhpur - known for its opulent palaces and regal aura. Scratch the surface and you will be delighted with the eclectic people, living traditions and colorful culture of the city. This heritage walk not only gives you great sights, but also a true insight into the makings and beliefs of this great city of wonder. Take an enchanting walk through the narrow hidden alleys dotted with indigo colored houses, bustling bazaars and quaint boulevards. Mingle with the locals who further reveal the secrets of the blue city. Interact with the ingenious artisans to understand their craft, visit the historic Krishna temple, and meet the priest as well as his family. Also, discover the ancient step-wells (that plays a vital role in the religious and social life of the residents), sample out some mouth-watering sweets of Jodhpur (like GulabJamun, Mave Ki Kachorietc), and, visit the free community Kitchen, to feel the buzz of the city. The tour will be engagingly guided by specially trained “City Explorers” whose excellent local knowledge and passion is infectious. In addition to that, be prepared to be regaled with local tidbits over tea, by the residents of a more than a century-old house embellished with mirror work and fresco paintings. 

Overnight at Ratan Vilas, Jodhpur (Courtyard Superior Room - Upgraded) (B)

After breakfast, we proceed on a guided tour of Jodhpur. Our tour includes the massive fort.  In olden days this must have been impregnable since its rocky base is scraped straight down making it nearly impossible to ascend.  Once inside, royal palaces abound with fascinating history and priceless jewels, on to the armoury and Jaswant Tara - the Royal Crematorium. 

We will also visit the public areas of Umaid Bhawan Palace

Evening, we would drive to the Clock Tower Bazaar. This is one of India’s largest and most colorful wholesale markets especially with respect to clothes, fabrics, spices, vegetables etc. It is a fantastic experience to walk through the place observing and photographing this incredible spectacle of vibrant lifestyles and incredible colors.

Overnight at Ratan Vilas, Jodhpur (Courtyard Superior Room - Upgraded) (B)

After breakfast, we will drive to Pushkar.

Upon arrival in Pushkar, we will check into hotel, Rawai Luxury Tent.

After rest and relaxation, we will walk through this amazingly fascinating religious town. According to legend, the origin of Pushkar dates back to the time when Lord Brahma was on his way in search of a tranquil land to perform a ‘Yagna’. A lotus fell from the hand of the Lord into this valley. A lake sprang up on this spot and was dedicated to him. A Brahma temple located here which is supposed to be the only temple dedicated to this God is a popular place of pilgrimage. It would be fascinating to walk along the maze of narrow lanes and streets.

Overnight at Rawai Luxury Camp, Pushkar (Deluxe Tent) (B)

Days free to enjoy Pushkar Fair. The fair is initially devoted to the trade of camels, sheep, horses and cows. Their owners, dressed in colourful attires use all their persuasive skills to sell them at most competitive prices. The festival offers a perfect opportunity to the local people specially the womenfolk to purchase the most exquisite jewellery items. The garment stall selling various garments with attractive tie n die work, patchwork and tattoo shops add to the colours of the festivals.
    
Overnight at Rawai Luxury Camp, Pushkar (Deluxe Tent) (B)

After breakfast, we will drive to Jaipur. 

Upon arrival in Jaipur, we will check into hotel, Ikaki Niwas.

Afternoon, we experience a unique walking tour of Jaipur, where we wander through the winding narrow lanes bustling with activity. The walk would enable to us an opportunity to interact with local residence, skilled craftsmen and traditional traders. The idea is not only to bring to the visitor the history and tradition of the place, but, to also bring to you face to face with the people who have made it possible for this heritage to generate and sustain for centuries. 

The rulers of Jaipur were great patrons of crafts. It is for this reason that the city is considered the craft capital of India, where traditional crafts are still produced using techniques passed on through generations. Our walk also brings to us the opportunity to witness and sample (if willing) some of the most favorite street foods prepared and sold by vendors who have had this business for years. Some favorites would be – samosas, tikkis, chaat etc. Our walk also winds through the local artisan’s compounds and workshops. Jewelers and silver smiths, gold painters and the tie and dye artists. Then, the unique art of enameling on metal (Meenakari) and traditional methods of gem setting (Kundan) offer unique insights into the crafts of the region. A special mention must be made of our walk along the bustling (Hanuman Ka Rasta) lane. This is a craft lover’s delight, where from wedding card manufactures to book binding and printing to gold and silver casters and gem stone traders are all to be found offering a delightful reminder of crafts of the bygone era. We would also visit a president’s award winning Meenakari craftsmen’s workshop, and, observe the brisk business undertaken by the gem stone traders on Gopalji Ka Rasta. A walk through ‘Ghee Walon Ka Rasta’ offers opportunities to find some of the traditional food in town. As our walk reaches Johari bazaar, you would notice money changes excitedly take stock of their collections of old coin – some of these coins could date back to more than 200 yrs. The last stop of our walk would see us mingle with perfumes and flower sellers. 

Thank you for walking with us on the trail of time where history, traditions, crafts and above all traditional hospitality came to life. 

Overnight at Ikaki Niwas, Jaipur (Deluxe Room) (B)

This morning we proceed on a unique tour of Block making & Printing in Bagru – located approximately 30 kms from Jaipur. Rajasthan is always known throughout the world for its exquisite block printing. It is a tradition that goes back centuries and has been passed down through generations, making the people of Rajasthan experts in this unique craft. Once we reach Bagru - the hub of Block printing in India, we will visit the various workshops, and shops of traditional block carvers and printers who provides us a peek into their collections as well as educate us the different traditional ways involved in the process of Block Printing. Moreover, the famous Bagru designs are created by immersing the fabric in a hard solution, extracted from plants that are typically found in some parts of Rajasthan. The fabric is then dried in blistering heat, then placed atop tables and slabs where wooden blocks with carvings are used for printing on the fabric. On this special tour you will also be taught about the various post printing processes like boiling, dyeing, color fixing and washing. Sure, this will be the perfect hands-on experience as you assist the artisans in making that perfect design which you can also take back home as an ideal souvenir. 

Next, we will visit the Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds, a five-storied structure of pink sandstone with semi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed windows overlooking the main street of the old city. It was built in 1799 so that veiled royal women could peer down unseen by the world through its 593 stone screens.

Next, we visit Amber Fort, the former capital of the royal Jaipurs. Few fail to be moved by the dramatic Rajput grandeur of this hilltop fortress-palace 11 km north of Jaipur. Set on the dry wrinkled Aravali Hills, and surrounded by fortified battlements, the palace straddles two sepia-hued tundra hills overlooking Maota Lake, and its sprawling crenellated walls lattice the surrounding hills. 

We will ride up to this hilltop palace on a caparisoned, painted elephant, passing through the ancient main gate where Maharajas of Jaipur have entered for four hundred years. Our guide will elaborate on the history of this architectural masterpiece with its mirror-studded alcoves, dazzling mosaics and water-cooled swings that delight today’s visitors as they did their formerroyal residents.

Later, we visit the Panna Meena ka Kund. This beautiful place was constructed during sixteenth century. The place was mainly utilized as a place of social meetings. People from nearby places come here for getting water, swimming or just to hang out with their loved ones. During ancient times, this place was utilized mainly as water protects pool. This beautiful Kund has a unique architecture and styling. This Kund was designed by a Brahmin and constructed by craftsmen and engineers.

We would also stop at Jal Mahal palace for photos. (From Outside Only)

Later, we will proceed on a tour Of the City Palace & Observatory. The City Palace in the heart of the old city is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The palace lies in the heart of the city and occupies the whole central grid. The fortified wall has seven gates and was built for protection from invading armies and animals that lived in jungles, which surrounded the wall that time. Next, we visit the Solar Observatory - an astronomical treasure house, with solar device that give accurate predictions till date.

Overnight at Ikaki Niwas, Jaipur (Deluxe Room) (B)

After breakfast, we will drive to Agra en route we will visit the deserted capital city of Fatehpur Sikri. This abandoned capital of the Mughals is a perfectly preserved city at the height of the empire’s splendor. The city divided into religious and secular parts has interesting well-sculpted buildings.

Following the tour, we will continue our drive to Agra.

Upon arrival in Agra, we will check into hotel, Crystal Sarovar Premier. 

Evening, we will visit Mehtab Bagh. The Moonlight Garden was an extension of the Taj Mahal Garden on the other side of the river. In 1652 Aurangzeb wrote to his father telling of a visit to 'the blessed tomb' and commenting that 'the Mehtab Garden was completely inundated and has lost its charm, but soon it will regain its vibrancy. The octagonal pool and the pavilion around it are in splendid condition.' The Mehtab Bagh was lost under the mud but re-excavated in the 1990s. Originally, the garden was planted with fragrant flowers and used in the cool of the night as a place from which to view the Taj Mahal reflected in the octagonal pool and in the river. 

After the visit of Mehtab Bagh, we will visit Taj View Point for a magnificent sunset view of the Taj Mahal. This is a new project of the government that helps tourist a view of the Taj Mahal from a very close point across the river Yamuna.

Overnight at Crystal Sarovar Premier, Agra (Studio Room - Taj View - Upgraded) (B)

Agra is the city of the Taj Mahal, perhaps the most photographed monument in the world. However, there is a degree of enigma about the Taj. Once you hear about a building so much and once you see so many pictures of a building your expectations are real high; and this is the enigma about the Taj Mahal. No matter how many pictures you have seen or no matter how high your expectations are the Taj never lets you down - the unparalleled glory and beauty of the building surpasses beyond all human imaginations.  At sunrise we visit one of the greatest sights of one’s lifetime – Taj Mahal. A dawn visit to the fabled Taj Mahal to witness the magical effects caused by the reflections of the changing colours of the rising Sun on this brilliant white marble building. Later we return back to our hotel for breakfast.

After breakfast, we ride to the massive Agra Fort. The elegant buildings inside reflect an interesting synthesis of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles, built by Emperor Akbar, the maze of the courtyards, mosques & private chambers of the fort echo the story of the Mughal Empire.

Following the tour, we will drive to Delhi. 

Upon arrival in Delhi, we will check into hotel, Udman Ferns N Petals.

Overnight at Udman Ferns N Petals, Delhi (Deluxe Room) (B)

(Though the checkout time is 12 noon, every effort would be made to retain rooms till as late as possible without additional charges – subject to availability)

In time, transfer to the international airport to board the onward flight. 

No Hotel Quoted For This Day (B)
 

END OF SERVICES

We do hope the flavor of India will remain on your taste buds for all times to come and hopefully would kindle an indelible fondness for the country and her people; Thank you for being our guest, and as we say in India 

‘Please come back soon”

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!!